Scrum is an agile methodology for managing complex projects. Traditionally, scrum was used in software development but is a framework that adapts to any scope of product development. Scrum is a good fit when product development requires a rapid adaptation to change and short development cycles are needed.
What is a Scrum?
A scrum is typically designed for teams of 10 including the product owner, the development team who is responsible for self-organizing to complete the work, and the scrum master (leader) who ensures the group adheres to best practices. The scrum typically works on two-week development cycles (called “sprints”) and quick daily stand-up meetings where participants stand during the brief 5 to 10 minute meeting.
The goal of the daily stand-up is to identify issues and promote follow-up conversation within the team. Each team member usually has around one minute to discuss their own progress, issues and current task for the day.
When to Use Agile Scrum
The agile scrum methodology is often considered a good choice when project requirements change daily, when budget is less of a consideration and communication with business teams (developers, sales, analysts and so on) span different geographical locations and time zones.
The Scrum Alliance
The Scrum Alliance is an established nonprofit association in the agile community with a vision is to inspire organizations to adopt agile mindsets, develop content and learning opportunities and guide the application of agile practices, principles, and values through career-long certification path. The Scrum Alliance defines scrum as follows:
Scrum (n): A framework within which people can address complex adaptive problems, while productively and creatively delivering products of the highest possible value. Scrum is not a process or a technique for building products; rather, it is a framework within which you can employ various processes and techniques. – Source: The Scrum Guide (PDF)
